How to: apply serum

Serums confuse a lot of people. They never know why they should use them, when they should use them, or what type to use.

I have heard so many people say that serums are a waste of time, and truth is, if you apply it incorrectly, it is. But when used correctly, serums are a beneficially addition to your skincare routine.

A general rule of thumb when apply skincare products is always thinnest to thickest – the thinner the consistency, the earlier you need to apply it. So basically, apply serums, then oils, then gels and finally creams, always applying sun protection last. Make sure to leave a few minutes between each application for the products to absorb.

Serums are highly concentrated and active; this means that they need to be applied first, to clean skin. This way all the active ingredients can penetrate your skin. These active ingredients are reason why serums are more expensive than regular moisturisers. The high concentrations in the raw materials push the price up.

Another point to remember is that not all serums will work with all moisturisers. If you are unsure, either use serums and moisturisers from the same brand, or check the serum to see if it says that if can be included in your normal beauty routine. This will mean that there are no ingredients that will react with moisturisers.

Always read the instructions. Many people apply far too much serum, and then complain that it doesn’t sink in. A little will go a long way, and rather apply too little and add, rather than having to wipe the excess off.

As I mentioned before, accurate application of serum is vital for its effectiveness. Here are some great tips for getting the results you want:

Apply tiny dots of serum all over your face and then blend lightly and quickly all over.

Use short light but firm strokes to apply your face serum. Do not stretch, pull or rub the skin.

Whilst the serum is still wet after applying gently tap the surface of your face with your fingers for half a minute. You can use all your fingers both hands on either side of your face very lightly. The tapping action encourages the serum to sink fully into the deeper layers of the skin as far as it is able to go.

If you feel any tingling sensations when you apply the serum – don’t worry. Tingling can be a sign the active ingredients in the serum are getting to the dermis – where they need to be if they are going to work. Types of serum ingredients where you may see this result include vitamin C and retinoids

Only when your serum is fully dry – touch dry on your face (this should take around 3 minutes) – should you apply your oils, eye cream and moisturizer in a similar manner. Let that sink in fully before you apply your foundation and normal makeup.

PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

TAla

Rouge Beauty Girl

Do you mean hyaluronic acid? Yes, you can. Oily skin, while high in oil, can often be dehydrated (lacking in water), so hyaluronic acid can be very beneficial for oily skin.
Read this post, as it explains the concept more: http://rougebeauty.co.za/2015/02/dehydrated-skin/

Rouge Beauty Girl

I wouldn’t. Rather use one for one concern in the morning, then apply another at night for a different concern. The reason for this is that each serum will work better by itself, rather than being layered.

Rouge Beauty Girl

sandeepta

hello! i just bought a serum of oxyglow and its directions vare to apply the serum after applying moisturiser/cream actully my skin is dry and this is first time i am using a serum.so need your advice and can we apply it before make up.

Adebayo Oluyinka

Rouge Beauty Girl

You need to use two different products, as they are two different concerns. Use a range for acne prone skin and use the Pond’s Flawless Radiance Anti-Spot Intensive Even Tone Serum for the pigmentation.

Good luck!

suriya

hi, am applying lakme perfect radiance serum with the day cream moisturiser ( though it asks me to use light creme moisturiser for better result). But after applying i have a burning sensation for few seconds.I am first timer for serum. Is there a problem?

Rouge Beauty Girl

Good quality serums can help, but you have to maintain your skin with a good routine and healthy diet as well.
Make sure you cleanse, moisturise and apply sun protection as well as using an anti-aging serum.

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I explained in the post, your serum should go on before your moisturiser. The thinner the texture of the product, the earlier in your routine it should be applied. As for the time of day to apply it, please read the directions on the product, as I’m not familiar with this particular serum.

Hope this helps,
Emmy

Katie

I use neutropenia acne treatment and just purchased Ole Henriksen truth serum with 20%vitamin C. What do I use first? The acne treatment or serum? And do you think I can mix these 2 together? Neutropenia works very well with my skin and I don’t want to give up.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Shilps

Hi,
i have acne spots on my face but it is not visible from far, but it can to noticed from near. and sometimes pimples will get on the same place again and again. so i want clear skin. i would like to purchase “American Swan Smoothing Face Serum”. i am new to SERUM. Pls Help ME… 🙂

Rouge Beauty Girl

Thanks for your message.
I’m sorry, I’ve never heard of “American Swan Smoothing Face Serum”, so I can’t tell you if it is suitable or not.

Serums are generally not targeted to problem skin – you need to use a whole range of products developed to treat spots. But this is only if you have very bad skin, which it doesn’t sound like you do.

Dermalogica has a range called Clear Start for acne prone and problematic skin. Otherwise, look for spot treatments that you can use just on the spots essence, Clarins and Skin Republic all have great options.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Yes, you can apply your regular face cream after serum in the morning – just give the serum a few minutes to absorb before applying the cream.
At night you can just apply serum, unless you have very dry skin, then you can apply a night cream over the top of the serum.

Rouge Beauty Girl

How long have you been using it? If you’ve only just started using it, rather try and apply it only a few times a week. Then slowly build up the number of times you apply it over a months or so. This way your skin will be able to adjust to the active ingredients in the serum.
If after a month your skin is still burning, you should look at trying a different serum.

Good luck,
Emmy

prachi

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I don’t know the serum you’re talking about.
But AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) are used for moisturizing and removing dead skin cells, for treating acne and improving the appearance of acne scars, for improving the appearance of photo-aged skin, and firming and smoothing skin.

If your skin is dealing with the glycol and AHA serum without burning, then it’s fine. But please make sure you wear at least SPF30 everyday – the acids will make your skin sun sensitive.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Ok, so if you do use Retinol with Vit C, you have to make sure that you apply them separately (one in the morning, one at night).
I have asked a few industry pros, and the general consensus is that good quality 20% Vit C is going to set you back an awful lot. SkinCeuticals is the best one we know of, but only contains 15%, not 20%.

I chatted to my friend Leigh (lipglossismylife) and she asks if you are that concerned about dark spots and wrinkles, would you not consider laser treatment? This will gives you faster, better results for the same amount as 6 months of Vit C serum.

Let me know your thoughts,
Emmy

Pavi

Hi I ve jus started using lotus serum.. Pls let me know whether it is a good one.. And also m using sunscreen after serum and night cream of the same brand.. Can I apply serum in the night as wel before applying night cream?

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I don’t know that Lotus brand. Where is it from?
Why are you using sunscreen after your night cream?
Yes, you can apply serum before your night cream – there is a step-by-step guide in the post above.

Emmy

shuhaida

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I explain in the post, a general rule of thumb when apply skincare products is always thinnest to thickest – the thinner the consistency, the earlier you need to apply it.
So, a toner is actually part of your cleansing routine, so apply that after you’ve washed your face. Then serum, then moisturiser.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Khushi

Hi , i have normal to oily skin, m 28 yrs old mother, M using vitchy normaderma anti imperfection cream day time, so upon that can I apply radyance serum day time and only serum at night or should I use any moisturizer and then serum. I will not have fairer looking skin at all whichever cream I apply so plz help me out which brand cream can I prefer to look fairer as well.

Rouge Beauty Girl

You always apply serum UNDER moisturiser. So apply serum and then apply cream or lotion over the top.
Bleaching products are illegal in SA, so you won’t find any legal product that lightens your skin. If you are concerned with dark marks caused by the sun, then you need to look for a pigmentation treatment. Avene (available at Clicks) has a product called D-Pigment that can help with pigmentation.
Garnier and Neutrogena also have great treatments for it.
Also remember to wear sun protection every single day.

Nilu

Rouge Beauty Girl

I don’t know that specific product, but I’m guessing it’s a pigmentation treatment?
If so, then yes, it’s better to use it at night. And remember to wear sun screen during the day, as pigmentation serums can make your skin more sun sensitive (which will create more pigmentation if you don’t wear sun screen).

Rouge Beauty Girl

manjula c

Hi I ve jus started using oriflame true perfection serum.. Pls let me know whether it is a good one.. And also m using day moisturiser after serum and night cream of the same brand..and shall I know is it right way or not

Rouge Beauty Girl

Grace

Hi i’ve an oily skin. I’m using skII products. Should i use serum then moisturizer for daycare or only use moisturizer? Cause when i used both of that previously, i felt my skin was burning. And is’t ok if i only use serum without moisturizer for nightcare?

Rouge Beauty Girl

If your skin feels ok, then you can just use the moisturiser during the day and then just the serum at night.
Which serum are you using? Because unless it’s a retinol or Vit C product, it should be making your skin burn.

Let me know,
Emmy

Grace

Thanks for ur reply.
I’ve been using skII product for almost 6month and still got a pimple on my cheek. Or is’t bcs i use bb cushion laneige after using skincare? I’m using ft repair c for serum and facial lift emulsion for moisturizer

Rouge Beauty Girl

Ok, so the Facial Treatment Repair C contains an ingredient called Butylene Glycol, which is a type alcohol, which could be causing the stinging. If you can’t deal with it, then I suggest switching to another product.
And the spots could be caused by the Facial Lift Emulsion Moisturiser, as it’s a very rich formula. The emulsion is for an older skin, so it could be that you don’t need all the actives and hydration that is in this formula. So you could try switching to a lighter formula and see if it gets better…
Did a skincare consultant recommend these particular products to you? And why did you start using them – did you want to get rid of acne, treat wrinkles, improve radiance?

Let me know and I’ll see how I can help.

Emmy

Priyanka

Hi, I’ve just bought a Radyance Skin Brightening Complex serum. Please tell me how do I apply it i.e. the process and also can I apply it before going to bed at night. Do I need to combine it with olive oil as well ? The product already contains Vitamin C & Hyaluronic acid. Thanks.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I’ve never used or tested this serum, so can’t help you with specifics.
Generally, you’d apply your serum under your night or day cream. And, no, don’t wash it off – it needs to stay on your skin in order to work.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I can’t recommend anything. Skin bleaching products are illegal in South Africa (where I live), and I don’t know what products are available to you in Nigeria.
I would suggest you stay out of the sun and wear sun protection every single day, as dark skins tan just like pale ones do.

Sorry I couldn’t be of help,
Emmy

annestina kings

I don’t know my type of skin and at times my face is always oily and for some season it peels because of that I can’t make up cos my face will over peel and its noticeable..also don’t have one colour on my face,the edges of my face like my fore head,jaw,the edge of my eyes too ..my cheek is fair including my nose,mouth and some part of my eye the rest is a little bit dark..what do I do and the type of products I should use

Rouge Beauty Girl

Honestly, if your skin condition is that bad, I suggest you consult a doctor about which products you could use. It sounds like it may need medicated creams to treat, so anything available on the high street will just be ineffective, and may make the problem worse.

Good luck,
Emmy

Sundar

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sadly I have never heard of or tried Radyance serum, so I can’t tell you how well it works. Most serums are unisex, so ok for guys to use as well.
I wouldn’t recommend you mix olive oil with your serums.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I don’t know the Lotus Herbal White Glow Night Cream, but I’m guessing it’s for pigmentation? If this is the case, then no, I wouldn’t apply a pigmentation treatment over the top of a Vitamin C one.
Rather use the Vitamin C serum during the day, with your day cream and sunscreen over the top. Then use your Lotus Herbal White Glow Night Cream at night. The reason for this is that Vitamin C is quite an unstable ingredient, so may react with your whitening night cream.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Where do you live? We don’t have Radyance in South Africa, so I don’t know how well it works.
The best way to get your face the same shade as your body is to wear sunscreen every day. The sun darkens your skin whether you’re very pale, like me, or have dark skin. Protecting it from the sun will help keen your squinting even.

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I mention in the post above:
PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

Sorry I can’t be of any help,
Emmy

Pawandeep

Hii
I’m 30 year old my skin is oily and I saw fine lines on my face and my complaction ok skin is darker then before.which products are gud for my skin . I want white skin tone with glow as I had in past

Rouge Beauty Girl

I’m guessing you don’t live in South Africa? We don’t have that product on the market here, so I’ve never used it.
But a quick Google tells me it’s for pigmentation rather than acne scars. Some form of exfoliation is probably better for you, but you’d have to get some advice from a skincare expert in your own country for recommendations, as I can only comment on products available in South Africa.

Radha

how to use netrogena brightning serum.
Can i apply it in day time as well as night before sleeping.
I heard that it shouldn’t apply on daytime as it has retinol and can may skin more dark.Please suggest.
or else if i can use vitamin c serum in day and neutogena brightning serum at night, will that be fine, please suggest little confused.

Rouge Beauty Girl

We don’t get the Brightening Serum in South Africa, but yes, it does contain retinol, so it’s better to use it at night.
Having said that, Vitamin C can also make your skin more sun sensitive, so only use that at night as well, but not on the same nights at the retinol. Rather alternate these, as you’ll see better results.
Just make sure that you apply a high SPF (30 or above) every single day to avoid more pigmentation.

Rouge Beauty Girl

That really depends on you. Yes, of course you can use powder after your day cream, if you want to…
Powder is makeup for oilier skins, and serum and day cream are skincare products, so the use of one doesn’t really make any difference to the use of the other.

balaji

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I say in the post: PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

I don’t see why you couldn’t apply olive oil after it, but I would only do it at night, and if your skin reacts to it in any way, stop.

Emmy

Akansha

Rouge Beauty Girl

It depends on what you want from your serum. You can use antioxidant serums now, if you want to, but I wouldn’t suggest you use an anti-ageing serum, as they will be too strong for your young skin.
Serums are the same as any other skin care – just make sure you choose the correct formula for your skin.

Rouge Beauty Girl

This is a tough one because most lightening products will make your skin incredibly dry, and pregnancy is already making your skin behave differently. Also, I don’t approve of ‘whitening’ products (which are different to products for pigmentation), as they are bad for your skin. In fact, they are banned here in South Africa for that reason.
I’m the same age as you and 7 months pregnant, too, and I personally wouldn’t use products with Vitamin C (the normal treatment for pigmentation) now. Mainly because you will get something called hormonal pigmentation, that won’t go away during pregnancy, even with products.

I’m just sticking to good moisturiser and wearing sunscreen every day to areas that are exposed to the sun.

Rouge Beauty Girl

I’d love to help you, but first please let me know where you live and what your budget is?
If you don’t love in South Africa, it’s very difficult for me to know which products are available to you in your country.

Thanks,
Emmy

jeni

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I say in the post above,
PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

Are you wearing sun protection every day?
If you are, then stop using it. You should never continue using a product you are allergic to.

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I say in the post above,
PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

rufaida andrabi

Rouge Beauty Girl

Hi Rufaida
As I say in the post above,
PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works.
But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

ajay negi

Hi, I am 25 yrs old. I just got O3 whitening serum. As my skin tone is a little bit dark, so I m looking to get a lighter skin tone.
It has been 2 days only since I am using only the serum at night. So can I anything else with the serum to enhance the skin lightening result. What you gonna recommend according to my skin which is a little bit oily as well

Rouge Beauty Girl

I’m guessing you don’t live in South Africa? Whitening products are illegal here, so I don’t know anything about them, sorry. This also means I can’t recommend products to you, as I don;t know what is available in your country.
The only advice I can give you is to wear a broad spectrum SPF every single day, even if you aren’t in the sun because those lightening products make your skin VERY sun sensitive.

Rouge Beauty Girl

ajay negi

Thnk u vry much for ur rply mam..bt I ws nt asking for any brand…well I live in india..i have read all the above cmnts where u have recommended people to use moisturizer aftr serum…As I m using only serum at night ..so the only thing I want to ask is can I use any enhancement product like night cream or any brightening cream with serum…will that be helpful or only the serum is good enough to work…if yes then what will be d procedure to use it (not asking for any brand) wat u gonna recommend depending on my skin type which is a little bit oily…waiting for ur precious response..
Thank you 🙂

Rouge Beauty Girl

You always use moisturisers after serum. As i say in the post, you apply the thinnest product first, then add.
If you use too many brightening/whitening products, you will make your skin dry and sensitive, so you will have to test out a few products to see if they work with your skin. Just a serum may be fine, but it also may not be – it depends on how your skin reacts to the products you are using. Unfortunately it’s not an exact science.

Buhle

I recently started using the Clarins Bright+ serum and night cream. The sales lady discouraged the use of any oil as a day moisturiser because the skin burns or becomes darker. Her logic makes sense but I have been using Jojoba oil with Olive oil for about 2 years now and I don’t think that’s the case. So I’m asking you if I should heed her advise or not? As you said that using another brand’s moisturiser could work against the active products of the serum, I feel like keeping it simple with my oil and sunblock.

Thanks

Rouge Beauty Girl

I’m sorry to say that I kind of agree with the sales lady on this one. It’s not the oil itself that will cause the sun sensitivity, but the actives in the Clarins combined with the oils that may cause a problem.
Having said that, there is no reason why you can’t give it a go – everyone’s skin is different and reacts to ingredients differently. Just make sure you’re pathological about wearing SPF50 every day. Then if you see a problem, stop and switch to another moisturiser.

Hope this helps?

Antara

Hi….. I am using lotus whiteglow intensive skin whitening serum. And when I am using it, slight burnining sensation has occoured……and after few minute burning sensation has gone….. so is it good sign ???? Should I use this serum still ????

Rouge Beauty Girl

It’s difficult to say, as I’ve never heard of the product. If it contains retinol, then yes, a slight tingling sensation is normal, but burning is not a good thing. I would suggest you stop using it, but I can’t suggest what you can use in its place because I’m guessing you don’t live in South Africa?

Emmy

Ricky

Rouge Beauty Girl

Palakk

hi..i am from India..i am planning to buy a serum called cell construction serum from juicy chemistry…as i want to know can i use coldpressed olive or coconut oil instead of moisturizer…as its really hard to find an full organic face moisturiser to me with anti aging..m in late 20’s..plz help out..thanks

Rouge Beauty Girl

Pablo hov

Hi, I’m new using serum. By the way I’m a male not a female. Using serum with the aime of perfecting my body color so I just apply just very small quantity and also mix some in my normal body lotion, but also apply a bit to my face directly.
The prob is people started telling me after about 2 months using this that I’m bleaching, is it a normal serum reaction or what’s up ??

Rouge Beauty Girl

As with any product, if your skin is reacting to it, you should stop using it.
Also, are you using sun screen? If not, there really is no point in using treatment skin skincare, as the sun will just damage your skin again.

Nitin vashisth

Rouge Beauty Girl

I take it you don’t live in South Africa? We don’t have that product available here, so I’ve never tried it.
Your best bet is to read the instructions carefully and follow them. Also remember to wear sun screen every day if you’re using any brightening products.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Yes, you can use your cream after your serum, and yes, if you are using a brightening cream, you have to use sun protection every single day. If you don’t, you could get worse pigmentation than you had before.

Rouge Beauty Girl

As I mention in the post above:
PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

You can use any sunscreen, so long as your skin agrees with it.

Sorry I couldn’t help,
Emmy

Sunita

Rouge Beauty Girl

If you read the post above, you will see in step 7, I wrote:
Only when your serum is fully dry – touch dry on your face (this should take around 3 minutes) – should you apply your oils, eye cream and moisturizer in a similar manner. Let that sink in fully before you apply your foundation and normal makeup.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Wow, that’s a lot to put on your skin. Do you apply this all at night, or use different ones in the morning and evening?
I personally wouldn’t bother with the olive oil at all – especially because you want to use the Neutrogena serum and cream, which will both provide hydration an your antioxidant serums will provide antioxidant protection.

Always apply the thinnest texture first, so as a general rule: oils then serum then cream. Waiting for each to completely absorb before applying the next layer.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Marie Devlin

What do you recommend for rosacea? I am very fair, skin is sensitive and dry, and I am 70 yrs old and have rosacea. People tell me Origins has the best for rosacea, but before I put out the money on Origins Mushroom Serum and moisturizer, I would like your advice. Thank . I live in the U.S.A.,{ Rhode Island}

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I’m not much help to you as I live in Cape Town.
I don;t know which products are available to you there and we don’t get Origins here, so can’t tell you if they are any good or not.
Sorry I couldn’t be of any help,
Emmy

Which serum and moisturizer would you recommend for Rosacea, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin and I am 70 yrs old. I heard Origins Mushroom Serum was good but I don’t know. Do you have any recommendations? Thank you

Rouge Beauty Girl

Not necessarily, no. It depends on what the serum is for. I would stay away from the eyes with retinol, for example, but a hydrating serum should be fine. Just test it and see if your eyes get aggravated by your serum.

Hope this helps?
Emmy

Katleho Mokoena-Ngcobo

Rouge Beauty Girl

Mel bernardo

Iwant to try to use serum… i bought it in japanese store. Its Olive moisturizing serum for oily skin.do you think its ok? And i also apply ponds white day cream?i dont have much problem with my skin ijust want to keep it as is it and reduce oiliness.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Please read the post above. At the bottom, it says:
PLEASE NOTE: So many of you have been asking me about Radyance serum – we don’t get it in South Africa, so I’ve never tried it, so I can’t tell you how well it works. But, please, if you are using any type of brightening serum, please wear sun protection on your face every single day, as many of the ingredients in these types of serums make your skin sun sensitive, which can lead to even more uneven skintone.

Lani

hello! first time using serum. so I purchased “more white”. And changed my moisturizer from White up to Ever sheen cocoa butter lotion. plx direct me how I use my new product. I don’t want to be light light but golden brown.

Rouge Beauty Girl

SriRam

I have seen Neutrogena fine fairness brightening serum ,in which they described like”The breakthrough formula penetrates beneath the skin surface and deactivates melanin production at the source.”is this means like without sunscreen i can’t go out in the sun? literally I will became a vampire,if I use that?

Divya

Rouge Beauty Girl

viola

Hi. I am using Rilastil D-clar (serum+sun protection cream spf 50) for the hyper-pigmentation, i am using it during the night and i am keeping the coming day as well without washing it in the morning am i using it right? As an addition to the serum it is suggested to be used the sun protection cream D-clar(For a complete and intensive anti-spot treatment it is recommended to use it in combination with Rilastil D-Clar Depigmenting Cream SPF 50+) , but i am not using it because it has a dark color and my face looks bronze ,something that i do not like as i am very pale and my body as well. In addition to the serum i am using another sun protection cream, spf 30. So, can you please tell me is it all right if am using whatever sun protection cream or i must use only the one accompanied with the serum. Thanks in advance

Gull

Rouge Beauty Girl

Tanisha

Hi.. Ï got black puches under my eyes, tried using Watever ï was told but it worsened m’y situation, instead thé black puches turned into black n redish as if ï got burnt.. Kind of à wound… Smone advised me to buy touch me please scar serum.. Have Used it sofar for one Day.. Will it work for me in m’y situation ?? How long do ï Need to use it for better results ? Have a party in two wks time Will ï be better or wat shud ï use ?

Rouge Beauty Girl

Tanuja

Hey Emmy,
Thank you for such beautiful information out here !
I’m 25years old Asian and frequently get pimples only on the center of my right cheek, as I tend to have acne prone skin. As of now, I’m using neutrogena’s cleanser and moisturizer for oily skin and have just bought the serum .Could you please help me to get rid of it, the marks left behind are really pissing me off.. 🙁

Rouge Beauty Girl

Nancy

Hi.. I’m 27 years old and I have an oily skin. I just started using Neutrogena brightening serum. Is it ok if I just apply a toner and the serum at night without a night cream? And also, can I apply the serum before using sunscreen during the day?

Rouge Beauty Girl

Yes, you can use toner before serum without night cream, and I’m pretty sure you can use the serum during the day. Not 100%, though.
Do you live in South Africa, as I’m not sure they have a brightening serum on our market.

Thanks,
Emmy

Taylor Lovins

Rouge Beauty Girl

I wouldn’t without checking with the prescribing doctor first. As Vitamin C is an acid, you might be putting stress on your skin by applying both. Rather check with your doctor, and tell them which serum you’re using.

Thanks,
Emmy

Olga

Thank you for such a descriptive post. I use shiseido bio-performance glow revival serum. Do i apply it on face avaoiding eye area or can i apply it on my eyes as well? I use a moisturizer and eye cream as well.

Thank you in advance!

Rouge Beauty Girl

I personally apply serum to my eye area (except very strong retinol), and there isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t – unless it stings your eyes.
So test it and see how you get on. If you’re eyes don’t burn, you’re good to go.

Menty

Rouge Beauty Girl

Yes, you can:
Only when your serum is fully dry – touch dry on your face (this should take around 3 minutes) – should you apply your oils, eye cream and moisturizer in a similar manner. Let that sink in fully before you apply your foundation and normal makeup.

Thanks,
Emmy

Jass Kaur

Hello, I have some acne marks on my face. I purchased neutrogena fine fairness serum, if I use regular can this help to remove my acne scars? They are light not much dark. And my skin is really dry. When I applied this, next morning my skin was so dry. I use citaphil moisturiser.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I’m not sure because we don’t get that particular product in South Africa, as whitening products are illegal here.
I would suggest you use acids and vitamin c to deal with the marks, but as I’m not sure what is available where you live, I can’t recommend anything. I will be doing a post on how to deal with acne scars in the next few months, so check back every few weeks. I’ll include the ingredients you should look for, so you can find products where you live.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, whitening products are illegal in South Africa, so I’ve never used or even heard of the Pure Glow products.
As Amlactin is acid based, I would say that your shouldn’t mix it with anything.
Please check their websites and read the instructions that come with the products.

Sorry I couldn’t be more help,
Emmy

Didi

Hi. I’m Nigerian. I just started using Palmers skin success skincare range to fight uneven skin tone. I use the complexion toner, anti dark spot corrector serum and anti dark spot fade cream. Both are pigmentation products. Does the serum, cream, sunscreen routine apply? Do I use them at daytime? Since they’re pigmentation pdts, should I only use them at night. Pls can you check if Veetgold sunblock cream spf 45 is a good sunscreen for me

Rouge Beauty Girl

Yes, most routines will be serum, cream, then sunscreen.
As we don’t get the products here, I don’t know when you should apply them, or of they are ‘good’ products. It’s best to read the instructions, or check their website to see what they suggest for application.
Well done for wearing high SPF – especially in Nigeria, where the sun is so strong. It’s the best way to keep your pigmentation from returning.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Wendy Seone

What can I use to remove skin pigmentation on my face? Please help me. My skin is dry and I’ve tried Eucerine and Clarins Products but no results instead the pigmentation increases. I live in Gaborone, Botswana

marissa val

I have tried all the brightening products, trust me and my wallet. The best one is the Somaluxe Brightening Serum. After about 2 weeks use, my face is much clearer and brighter, and the dark circles under my eyes are gone. Even the fine lines around my lips are disappearing. I don’t normally write reviews, but this Somaluxe Brightening Serum has saved my face and made me not embarrassed to go out in public.

Bobbie

Hello, I’ve been suffering with acne on my cheeks for a long time now. I’ve been recommended to use a serum but I don’t know what to use. I have dry skin and I’m 17. And also, is Nivea creme a good moisturiser?

Rouge Beauty Girl

You can apply it in the morning and evening, as long as you are not using Vitamin C as well. If you want to use Vitamin C, I suggest you use the niacinamide and zinc serum in the morning and Vitamin C at night.

Rouge Beauty Girl

I’ve never heard of that brand – I live in South Africa, so am guessing you don’t?
It may be that the concentration of Vitamin C in the serum is too much for your skin. You could try and only apply it twice a week until your skin adjusts, and slowly build up to using it more. If your skin still burns, then I suggest you stop using it.

Hope this helps, and let me know if you have any more questions.
Emmy

Afshan

Hi,
I’m 36 years old. I’m living in Sweden now. My skin is oily and acne prone. I’m using oils of life eye cream from body shop for dark circles and fine lines. Planning to start pomegranate serum from body shop ( pretty expensive). Can I use it on full face as it says avoid eye area. I want to get rid of multiple products at the same time and want to use one product. Is it ok if I use serum on whole face?
Afshan

Rouge Beauty Girl

The reason why many serums aren’t indicated for use around the eye is that they have been formulated or tested for use around the eyes. You’ll find that it will probably sting your eyes of you use it near them. I think it’s better to stick with using an eye cream and a serum.

Then, are you wanting to treat your acne with the pomegranate serum? It’s quite a heavy serum, designed for older skin, so it may be too rich for your skin. Have you asked The Body Shop staff what they recommend for your skin type?

Rouge Beauty Girl

Many people don’t feel anything. It’s more retinol that’s likely to cause a stinging sensation.
The best way to measure results is how your skin is feeling and looking, but allow a few months of daily use to see full results.

Jerry len

Hi mam I have an oily skin ,if I wash my face after two hours its oily again even I wear a foundation it dries again but in two hours its oily again what should I do ? What facial products should I use? Thank you

Rouge Beauty Girl

Subhajit

Hello mam
My name is subhajit and I am from India.. I am suffering from hyperpigmentation black marks right side of my face. Gone through few chemical peels. Can use neutrogena fine Brightening serum on my face mainly in black spots.. An early reply will be highly appreciated. Please mail me.. Thank you

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I don’t know the product you are talking about, as we don’t get it here in South Africa. Neutrogena is great brand, though, so I’m sure it will work. Just make sure you wear high sun protection every single day, otherwise you will just make the pigmentation worse.

Good luck,
Emmy

Subhajit

Daisy

Hi..i m little confused
Can i apply serum just ryt after applying toner on wet face or let toner completely dry then use serum?
Secondly can u tell me should i use my toner at night also as i have dry skin..

Rouge Beauty Girl

I personally never use toners, as I feel that most of them dry out the skin. And honestly, if your cleanser strips your skin so much that it needs to be toned, you shouldn’t use it. But if you want to use toner, then wait for it to dry before you apply your serum.
You can apply toner morning and night, but as I said, maybe don’t if you have dry skin.

Rouge Beauty Girl

lyn

it is ok to put serum and almond oil in face together before going to bed? im currently using almond oil and i found a serum and i’d like to give it a try but i don’t want to stop using almond oil in my evening rountine aswell.tnx

Marya W

Hi Rouge girl my face is 3shades darker than my body i don’t think it’s a permanent tan been like this since i was young which serum would you recommend to lighten my face been using kojie san for 2months now and nothing!sadly please help am in kenya something safe and affordable

Jill

hello can you please recommend a serum that I can mix in my everyday lotion that can help me achieve an even tonned skin? Please don’t worry about where I live as I can easily purchase anything recommend online.

Rouge Beauty Girl

You don’t mix serum with cream, as it will not penetrate your skin effectively. You apply serum first, let it absorb and then apply your cream.
Are you talking about serum for your face or your body? And what is your budget?

Varsha

Balu

Hi mam…
I have lot of doubts in my head..hope i’ll found solutions for all thats doubts from u …
Can i leave my face whole night ofter applying the serum…..or is moisturizer is must ?…which whitening cream is better for men skin…nd am from india…can i apply whitening cream ofter applying the serum ?

Rouge Beauty Girl

Yes, you apply your serum and leave it on. You can follow with a moisturiser if your skin needs it, or you can apply your whitening cream, as long as you aren’t applying a retinol serum. Don’t use a whitening cream as well as retinol – it will be far too strong and your skin will most likely react.
Sorry, I can’t help at all with recommendations on whitening creams as they are illegal here in South Africa.
Just make sure that you wear sunscreen every day when you are using any whitening products.

Rouge Beauty Girl

I wouldn’t mix them, rather apply them at different times to ensure you get the most benefit from them.
Then, what are you wanting to treat with the serum on your body? Either look for a body cream that does what you want your serum to do, or apply the serum first and then moisturiser.

Rouge Beauty Girl

Sorry, I have never heard of that product, so am not sure what it is meant to do. If it is to treat pigmentation, then you have to wear a high protection sun screen every single day.
If not, then yes, I would stop using it if your ski isn’t happy with it.